Cold Chain

What is the Cold Chain?

The Cold Chain is critical infrastructure and the backbone for commodities – food and beyond.  GCCA members showcase the expert management of temperature for perishable products, in order to maintain quality and safety from the point of origin through the distribution chain to the final consumer.

Why is the Cold Chain Important?

The cold chain ensures that perishable products are safe and of high quality at the point of consumption. Why does this matter?

• Safety and quality — temperature control prevents spoilage and reduces foodborne illness and food waste.
• Pharmaceutical efficacy — Many vaccines lose potency or become unsafe if they're exposed to temperatures outside their required range, even briefly.
• Reducing waste — A large share of food loss around the world is attributed to breaks in the cold chain, rather than lack of production.
• Public health — An intact cold chain means our communities ae fed and provided pharmaceuticals that work
• Economy and Workforce - the cold chain employees skilled talent around the globe in warehousing, transportation and logistics, research, technology and innovations, construction and engineering, and much more.

Have questions about food storage and handling? Ask one of our experts.